Close your eyes and imagine your ideal romantic getaway. Chances are that you imagined exotic destinations with an itinerary filled with lots of pampering and activities. Taking a cruise vacation can offer you and your loved one exactly that. The two of you will set sail aboard a romantic cruise ship to exotic ports, while enjoying time together and being treated to a luxurious lifestyle.

With many cruise lines now focusing on creating exciting experiences for families, it is difficult to find the perfect cruise ship for a romantic getaway. However, that does not mean it is impossible to find a romantic ship that will sweep you off of our feet.

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Here are some things to consider when looking for a romantic cruise ship:

Adults only: Does the cruise ship offer adults-only activities and sections of the ship?

Dining options: Are you able to enjoy a private dinner or do you have to share your table with others, including families?

Spa services: Does the spa offer a couple’s menu of services?

Privacy: Will there be plenty of privacy during the cruise, both inside and outside of your cabin?

Whether you plan to explore the various ports of call or stay in your suite the entire time, a cruise will give you the romantic experience you have been looking for. Here are some of the best cruises for couples.

Enjoy a getaway that is tailored around your romantic vacation and cruising needs. Upon boarding Celebrity Cruises, couples will be treated to multiple fine dining venues, spa experiences and private picnics on the top-deck lawn. Accommodations include spacious cabins with separate dining areas, whirlpool tubs and large balconies.

Experience the romance of the Mediterranean aboard a luxury ship with MSC Cruises. When sailing with MSC Cruises, couples will be treated to a variety of onboard amenities, including spa treatments, live entertainment and romantic dining venues. Couples can enjoy time alone in their cabin ordering room service or experience a private meal on one of the ship’s decks.

The best thing about taking a Norwegian Cruise Line vacation is the “Freestyle Dining” philosophy. This philosophy makes it possible for couples to dine when they want to, without worrying about assigned times and tablemates. The second best thing about this cruise line is the Las Vegas flair combined with the exotic destinations. Couples can experience a Vegas vacation right onboard their ship, including live entertainment, gambling and an adults-only pool area, followed by exciting adventures with the variety of shore excursions available.

Enjoy a romantic cruise aboard one of three adults-only ships. P&O Cruises offers couples many different package options including wedding and honeymoon packages. The suites are equipped with whirlpool baths and delivery of chocolates and champagne upon arrival. Couples can enjoy cocktails on the deck or spend time in their room ordering room service.

The smaller ships in the fleet of Paul Gauguin Cruises make it possible for couples to escape without having to deal with heavy crowds. Ships set sail for remote destinations in exotic corners of the world, which helps create a more romantic feel both on and off of the ship. Couples will be able to enjoy romantic meals in their choice of luxury restaurants, followed by a night of dancing cheek to cheek at the ship’s lounge.

The best ship for couples in the Paul Gauguin Cruises fleet is the Paul Gauguin.

Be treated to big-ship amenities in a smaller, much cozier ship atmosphere. Princess Cruises really knows how to treat couples by spoiling them with large balconies where they can enjoy dinner, champagne and chocolate-covered strawberries together at sunset. Other onboard romantic activities include “Movies Under the Stars,” couples spa services and private lounges.

Both SeaDream I and SeaDream II offer an intimate cruise setting for couples looking to escape. SeaDream Yacht Club has received top honors for providing couples with luxury romantic experiences. The state-of-the-art accommodations feature separate seating areas, bathrooms equipped with showers for two, flat-screen televisions and fine linens. Couples looking for a unique romantic experience can also book a night sleeping out under the stars.

There is nothing more romantic than setting sail aboard an authentic sailboat. Windstar Cruises offers couples a chance to experience a sailboat at sea with the luxury of a traditional cruise ship. The smaller ships only carry 312 passengers, creating an intimate feeling between crew and passengers. Guests will also be treated to traditional cruise activities, including the crew show, many dining venues and organized shore excursions.

The best ship for couples in the Windstar Cruises fleet is the Wind Surf.

The main benefit of taking a cruise vacation is being able to wake up to a different, exotic location every morning. By selecting the right cruise ship, you can experience romantic adventures and stay in lush accommodations at sea with your loved one. Take time and plan a romantic cruise aboard one of many cruise lines that cater to couples looking for a unique cruise experience.

Heather Landon is a freelance writer with more than 20 years of experience. She has combined two of her passions – writing and travel – to share her experiences with others. You can read more of her articles at Examiner.com.